Peru Imposes $190,000 Fine on Lima Clinic for Breach of Shakira’s Medical Records**
The National Health Superintendency (Susalud) has levied a fine of 125 UIT, amounting to 668,750 soles, against the Delgado-Auna Clinic due to the unauthorized disclosure of health information pertaining to Colombian artist Shakira, who was a patient at the facility last February.
In a statement released via its social media channels, Susalud stresses that revealing patient health information is considered a serious violation under the entity’s Regulations on Infractions and Sanctions.
The document underscores that every healthcare user is entitled to be treated with utmost respect for their dignity and privacy. This includes guaranteeing confidentiality and safeguarding data associated with their care, regardless of their nationality or type of insurance.
Furthermore, Susalud clarifies that this protection extends to details regarding a patient’s diagnosis, treatment plans, and overall medical condition. Such information cannot be shared without obtaining prior consent from the patient or their authorized family member or legal representative.
CONSTITUTIONAL PROTECTION OF MEDICAL CONFIDENTIALITY
The right to medical confidentiality is enshrined in the Peruvian Political Constitution, as well as in the General Health Law and the Law Establishing Rights for Health Service Users.
These legal frameworks affirm the fundamental rights to dignity and personal and family privacy alongside the confidentiality of health-related information.
Additionally, according to Susalud’s statement, the Personal Data Protection Act governs how sensitive personal data related to health—including diagnoses, treatments, and medical conditions—must be handled. It mandates that such information cannot be disclosed without obtaining prior consent from the individual it concerns.
